Flaming Delicious!

When we think of cold rainy days does Tomato Soup and grilled cheese sandwiches come to mind? Today's recipe is not my own, it is from a chef who cooks at a lodge in Whistler. I couldn't resist the chance to flambe and prepare an elevated, decadent meal for my family that is so Tasty!! The chef didn't give a name to his soup on the program so I will just name it based on its smoky, rich and piney flavors and its woodsy texture from the bacon and mushroom!

Northwest Garden Tomato Soup

Here is what you'll need...

6 large vine ripe tomatoes cut into 1/4 pieces
2 stalks of celery chopped finely
1 small onion chopped finely
1/2 lb of peppered bacon cut into small pieces
2 TB of olive oil
5/6 Shitake mushrooms sliced thinly
1/2 cup of Gin
1/4 cup of cream

In a skillet add 1 TB of olive oil and add the celery and onion then add the tomatoes. Cook down for about 20 minutes over medium heat. Place ingredients in a blender and puree until smooth. Strain mixture through a sieve and set aside.

 In a skillet add 1 TB olive oil. Add pieces of bacon and shitake mushrooms cook until bacon is done well and mushrooms are soft.

Add 1/2 cup of gin and with a LONG lighter or match ignite the dish. (BE CAREFUL TO STAND BACK AS FLAME IGNITES QUICKLY AND BOLDLY!

Don't worry the flame will burn off. When it does add the tomato puree mix well and then add the cream and serve with your favorite grilled cheese sandwich.